Now that the spring trip is over, it is time for the Mount Mary University softball team to gear up for the regular season. In the first game in the onslaught of tough regional doubleheaders, the Blue Angels will take on the Dominican University Stars (9-3) in Rosemont, Ill. this Saturday March 21st.
The Blue Angels (2-10) have been making progress from the first game of the 2015 season. Comparing with the winless 2014 spring trip, the shear difference from season to season is staggering.
In the 2014 spring trip, the Blue Angels went 0-12, mustered eight runs off of 24 hits, with two doubles and seven RBIs. On the base path, MMU stole three bags and was caught stealing twice.
In the circle, the Blue Angels gave up 196 runs, 118 earned runs, walked 51 batters, struck out 14 and gave up eight homeruns. All the while sporting a 16.65 ERA as a team at the 2014 spring trip.
Now, comparing where the Blue Angels are now after their 2015 trip, MMU offensively has nearly tripled their production in every category. The Blue Angels scored 35 runs off of 64 hits, with 13 doubles and 26 RBIs. MMU is clearing 9 stolen bases to their one caught stealing.
The pitching for the Blue Angels has also been a huge turnaround for the team. Although this year's staff gave up only 10 less hits, the rest of the stats show where the team is headed. In the 2015 spring trip, the Blue Angels gave up 111 runs, 80 earned runs, walked 31 batters, struck out 38 and gave up only two homeruns. As a team, the Blue Angels are at a 9.04 ERA.
The progress for MMU is right in time, as they are facing Dominican University, who was selected third in the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference preseason conference poll. The Stars are on a three game win streak, and are 3-1 against common opponents (MMU is 1-3).
A great midseason test for both teams should provide a great doubleheader. Follow all the action at portal.stretchinternet.com/dustars for Live Stats and live video.
Following the Stars, the Blue Angels will have another NACC battle against Lakeland College (5-9). The Muskies will come to town on Monday March 23rd with first pitch of the doubleheader set for 3:00 pm. The home opener for MMU will be held at the Rock Complex in Franklin, Wis.
